I flew WT DXB-LHR a few weeks ago.

Not flown WT since 2006(!!) and my, it was a poor flight! I've flown Y on NZ, JL, LH, QR and EK in the meantime and my BA 744 was the worst experience.

CSD was stereotypical "Mona" from Pam Ann - "which airline has crew that will make sure you know you haven't quite made it to business class?" On boarding, I said "hello, how are you?" to the outstretched hand, "Turn right" was the response! That kind of set the tone for the service. Flight was very empty in WT - I heard the Purser say they had 36 in WT!! I was in the two pair seats right at the back.

Loud clicking sound coming from rear washroom - I was going to say something but crew member called the Purser who said "yeah it's in the book. Typical they've not fixed it. Should be ok but I'll check it with Ann [the CSD]". CSD then struts down to the back of the plane, goes into washroom for about 2 seconds and clicking stops. I think maybe she just glared at it?

No IFE available, no PA to explain why. After takeoff, "service" starts - crew look either hungover or fatigued - probably latter as it's an 01:55(AM) departure. Silently handed a snack pack thingy followed by "drink?"

Still no IFE - I stop the Purser as she passed through from the forward traveller cabin "she's still working on it" was the response, and she was gone. I presume "she" was the CSD.

Anyway had work to do (wasn't going to attempt to sleep as it was about 25 degrees) and IFE finally came to life about 2 hours out of London.

One juice / water run on a 6 hour 20 flight. Didn't see the CSD patrolling. She was probably busy glaring at the IFE.

Hot breakfast wasn't too bad but it was offered as something like "eggs or quiche?" (Second option was a very odd breakfast choice). Anyway "eggs" happened to be a meat option - fine for me but you'd think that they would at least properly identify the meal.

Complaint filed and I got 4,000 ex gratia miles and an apology within about 3 days of my email.

I pointed out in my feedback that the person in the Dubai BA lounge was lovely (she really was - service there was spot on).

Flight home on a refitted 777 was much better. Crew still not stand out / flying to serve but they were ten times better than the other way. Thales IFE is great.

Also, had super ground staff at LHR - lovely friendly check in, friendly welcome to the lounge, proper priority boarding and again a friendly gate agent.